The ongoing Coronavirus pandemic has changed the way we handle our financial transactions, making contactless payments the new normal.

Google Pay, PhonePe, Paytm and other digital payment apps have become the go to applications for most. Joining the race, instant messaging app WhatsApp has launched its own UPI feature in India called WhatsApp Payments.

The payments are based on National Payments Corporation of India’s (NCPI) Unified Payments Interface (UPI). And it is dedicated only for peer to peer payments. Some major banks, including ICICI Bank, HDFC Bank, Axis Bank and State Bank of India have partnered with the instant messaging platform.

Here’s how you can set it up:

* Open WhatsApp

* Tap on the three dots on the top right corner.

* Choose the ‘Payments’ option.

* Now select ‘Add payment’ method.

* Select your account. (The account should be linked to mobile number)

* A verification message will be sent to your phone via SMS’ button.

* All your accounts in the bank linked to your number will show, once it’s verified. Choose the one you want to set up for the app to use.

* Tap done and your process of setting up your account is done.

How to send money using WhatsApp Payments:

Method 1:

* Select the person’s chat you want to send money.

* Choose the ‘Payment’ option from attachments menu.

* If the selected person has WhatsApp Payments, a screen will appear where you can send and request money.

* Enter the amount.

* A screen will appear and you will have to enter your UPI pin.

* Enter your UPI pin and you are done.